Charpy impact test

The Charpy impact test measures a material's toughness, or its ability to absorb energy and resist sudden impacts. In this test, a notched sample of the material is placed horizontally and struck by a swinging hammer. The energy absorbed by the sample as it breaks is recorded. This helps engineers understand how materials behave under stress or in cold temperatures, providing crucial information for safety in construction and manufacturing. The results guide choices in material selection for various applications, ensuring that structures and products can withstand unexpected forces.